Thank you, Joe Dickstein, for the lessons and laughter
August 14, 2020
On behalf of Jim Burton
It is with heavy sorrow that we inform you of the passing of a respected partner, friend, and mentor to PPI. On August 12, 2020 at the age of 90, Joe Dickstein passed away surrounded by loved ones.
Joe is what true friendship means to many. He was an example of kindness, empathy and inspiration, and words cannot describe the meaningful impact he leaves on us. At PPI, he was an integral partner, savvy business colleague, and insightful thought leader. With a Bachelor of Commerce degree at McGill University and an MBA at the Wharton School of Business, Joe ran an agency at Crown Life then later founded and became President of Westmount Life. Then as President of Dickstein Insurance Agency, he joined Prairie Pacific Insurance, and a partnership and lasting friendship were formed. PPI expanded under Joe's counsel as President and Director of PPI Financial Group (Eastern), and today, we continue to thrive because of his legacy.
It is impossible to describe what Joe means to PPI. His vision, intelligence, generosity, compassion, commitment, and integrity helped build this company. Full of jokes, anecdotes, and wisdom, Joe was a genuine listener and a master storyteller. His warmth and empathy allowed colleagues and clients to put their full trust in him as he always found simple solutions to complex situations. In 2013, Joe retired at the wonderful age of 83 but never truly left PPI, remaining a continual supporter and a source of inspiration throughout our journey. Joe enriched lives, made a difference, and created opportunities and his contribution to the industry, and to us as individuals, is a legacy that can never be replaced.
For John McKay and me, through all the peaks and valleys of our amazing journey at PPI, Joe has been a trusted and valued partner for more than 30 years, and just as importantly a dedicated friend.
Joe was no ordinary Joe. We are deeply saddened by his passing, but we are also deeply grateful for the memories he leaves us with and for the honour to have had Joe touch our lives.
Thank you, Joe, for the lessons and laughter.
We will arrange an additional celebration of Joe at a later date, and ask that you send your thoughts and notes of condolence to our office. Our thoughts are with Joe's family and we will pass on your wonderful thoughts and memories to them.
Sincerely, Jim
James A. Burton
Executive Chairman and CEO
PPI